Airport uses $10.5M federal grants for improvements

The Guam International Airport Authority is utilizing $10.5 million in federal grants to fund improvements to its cargo apron, airfield lighting, security checkpoints, and departure gates.

Key Points

1Guam International Airport Authority receives $10.5 million in federal grants for improvements.
2Funds allocated to cargo apron design, security screening upgrades, airfield lighting modernization, and a new paging system.
3$7.461 million earmarked for converting ground power units to electric power under the Voluntary Airport Low Emission program.
4Security screening checkpoint area expansion aims to improve passenger flow.
5New SUVs purchased for the airport police's K-9 unit.

Guam International Airport Authority (GIAA) is undertaking several capital improvement projects funded by $10.5 million in federal grants. The projects aim to modernize and expand key airport infrastructure, enhancing both cargo operations and passenger experience. The GIAA approved contracts for the design phase of a cargo apron project, improvements to security screening areas, airfield lighting upgrades, and a new paging system during its November board meeting. These upgrades are intended to streamline passenger processing and improve overall airport efficiency.

A significant portion of the funding, $7.461 million, is allocated to GIAA's Voluntary Airport Low Emission program. This initiative focuses on converting ground power units and preconditioned air units at all 17 gates and 21 boarding bridges from gas to electric power. This conversion aligns with broader sustainability goals and reduces the airport's environmental impact. Some gates and bridges have already undergone the conversion process.

Further enhancements include expanding the security screening checkpoint area to improve passenger flow and expedite transit crew processing. The airfield lighting modernization project targets the airfield lighting vault, upgrading the software and hardware that controls the airport's lighting system. Additionally, the airport is investing in a new paging system to provide clear announcements and flight updates throughout the facility.

To support airport police operations, GIAA has approved the purchase of new sports utility vehicles for the K-9 unit. These vehicles will replace older models and provide better transportation for canine officers and their kennels. These investments reflect GIAA's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the overall passenger experience at Guam International Airport.